Victor Osimhen has once again turned down overtures from Al Hilal, despite the Saudi Arabian giants matching Napoli’s €75 million asking price for the Nigerian striker.
The 26-year-old forward has made it clear he has no interest in a move to the Saudi Pro League and remains committed to joining Turkish champions Galatasaray, where he enjoyed a sensational loan spell last season.
Osimhen scored 37 goals and registered eight assists in just 41 appearances across all competitions for the Istanbul club, establishing himself as a firm fan favourite and one of Europe’s most lethal marksmen.
Both Galatasaray and Al Hilal have submitted offers that meet Napoli’s valuation, with the Turkish side proposing €40 million up front and the remaining €35 million in two further instalments. Al Hilal are believed to have suggested a two-tranche payment structure, which the Italian club view as financially attractive and straightforward.
Despite the lucrative financial incentives from Saudi Arabia and fresh attempts by Napoli to push Osimhen in that direction, the Super Eagles striker has remained unmoved. According to multiple reports in Italy and Turkey, including respected journalist Alfredo Pedullà and Turkish transfer expert Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, the Nigerian forward has refused to even enter discussions with the Saudi outfit.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, while satisfied that both offers meet his valuation, is reportedly keen on inserting a unique clause into any final deal. The so-called anti-Italy clause would block Osimhen from signing with any Serie A club for the next three seasons, ensuring the striker does not return to haunt Napoli domestically until at least the 2028-29 campaign.
The move is seen as a safeguard against strengthening local rivals, especially after Osimhen’s high-profile contributions to Napoli’s recent success.
The saga, however, remains complicated by disagreements over payment structures and demands from Napoli for bank guarantees before any deal is finalised. While Galatasaray continue to work on aligning all financial and legal details, Napoli are holding out hope that Osimhen may still reconsider the more straightforward and lucrative Al Hilal offer.
For now, Osimhen’s focus appears fixed on a permanent return to Istanbul. Whether that loyalty holds in the face of continued pressure from Naples and Riyadh remains to be seen.
